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Washington Monument

(
Sun photo by Amy Davis
/
May 23, 2001
)

Clue 5

Washington Monument, Mount Vernon Place, 1815-1829.

Made in part from Cockeysville marble, the first monument erected in honor of George Washington was largely paid for with $10 lottery tickets. In 1829, the figure of Washington was hoisted 188 feet to the top of the Doric column. Today, visitors make the 228-step climb to discover a classic view -- and cryptic graffiti. The traditional monument lighting is held in December.

Bonus fact: In an inscription at its base, Washington's 1789 inauguration is listed as March 4. It was April 30.